Behemoth cancel India show amidst safety fears and “threats” from “religious Christian groups”

“It is deeply concerning to see what feels like a growing movement toward censorship around the world" The post Behemoth cancel India show amidst safety fears and “threats” from “religious Christian groups” appeared first on NME. NewsMusic News Behemoth cancel India show amidst safety fears and “threats” from “religious Christian groups” “It is deeply concerning to see what feels like a growing movement toward censorship around the world" By Elizabeth Aubrey 18th February 2026 Tomasz Wróblewski from Behemoth - CREDIT: Elena Di Vincenzo/Archivio Elena Di Vincenzo/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images Behemoth have been forced to cancel their upcoming show in India amidst safety fears and “threats” from “religious Christian groups”. The show, which was due to take place on March 3, was cancelled following what the band described as “credible threats stemming from religious Christian groups.” Advertisement In a statement on social media, the band explained: “Over the past few weeks, we and our team have received numerous credible threats stemming from religious Christian groups who have been applying pressure to authorities and to the promoter in an effort to stop the show from taking place. “These threats have raised serious concerns regarding the band’s safety and security, including the possibility of arrest or physical danger.” They continued: “We have been in close contact with the local promoter throughout this process. We want to make it clear that this cancellation is not the fault of the promoter, who has acted in good faith at every stage. Despite genuine efforts, it was not possible to obtain sufficient assurances that the band would be protected from legal consequences or security risks. On that basis, we have made the decision to cancel the show.” View this post on Instagram The band were also recently forced to cancel shows in Turkey, saying at the time that they had to do so because of “pressure from religious groups who have characterised our art as satanic propaganda and deemed it unacceptable.” Recommended In response to their India show being cancelled, they referenced this incident, adding: “This is another example of religious fanaticism attempting to impose itself on artistic expression, something the band has recently faced in Turkey. “It is deeply concerning to see what feels like a growing movement toward censorship around the world. In this modern age, artists should not face intimidation, threats, or the risk of imprisonment for performing their art.” They concluded: “Regardless of religion, race, or culture, freedom of expression must remain a fundamental principle. We believe it is important that people stand together in support of liberal values and creative freedom. To our legions in India, we are deeply disappointed that we will not be able to perform for you on this occasion. We appreciate your support and hope to return soon. Stay strong. Stay free.” Last year, Behemoth frontman Nergal said justice “prevailed” after he was acquitted of “offending religious feelings” in his native Poland. Advertisement Nergal has run into trouble with Poland’s blasphemy laws multiple times in the past. In 2021, for instance, he was fined over £3,000 for stomping on an artwork depicting the Virgin Mary and posting it on Facebook. In 2010, he stood trial for blasphemy for tearing a bible on stage, eventually winning the case, while in 2019, he was kicked out of a YMCA gym in the US for not worshipping Jesus Christ. In 2025, Behemoth released their 13th studio album ‘The Shit Ov God’ via Nuclear Blast Records. Speaking about the provocative title, Nergal said: “We chose this provocative title deliberately, rejecting subtlety in favor of a direct and polarizing statement. It’s a defiant plunge into the depths, daring to seek the absolute even in the gutter.” Related TopicsBehemothMetal You May Also Like Advertisement TRENDING The NME 100: essential emerging artists for 2026 Miriam Petche just set a new ‘Industry’ standard ‘Wuthering Heights’ review: this sexed-up reimagining is a bonking success Inside Swim Deep’s gorgeous new album ‘Hum’: “It feels like we’ve arrived at the conclusion of who we are” The rise, fall and rebirth of 2000s IT room favourite ‘RuneScape’ Advertisement More Stories Music News Sharon responds as hundreds dress as Ozzy Osbourne for Mardi Gras Music News Iron Maiden share full details of “once-in-a-lifetime” Knebworth 2026 EddFest weekend Music News Tool in talks for Sphere residency in 2027: “We’re the perfect band for that” Music News Maynard James Keenan on why attention around Alex Honnold’s Taipei 101 Tool climbing playlist is “actually depressing” Music News Chuck D hits back at Gene Simmons’ “ghetto” comments about hip-hop in Rock Hall Of Fame: “KISS don’t have a lot of roll” Music News Don Broco and Nickelback unite for blistering single ‘Nightmare Tripping’: “A dream come true”